HEREFORD HARRIERS Wheelchair Rugby League side have joined forces with Betfred Championship outfit Midlands Hurricanes.
The team will, from 2026, operate in the Rugby Football League’s Wheelchair Championship – as Midlands Hurricanes – alongside Batley Bulldogs, Castleford Tigers, Gravesend Dynamite, North Wales Crusaders, Rochdale Hornets, Wakefield Trinity and York RLFC.
Following the rebranding the side will wear Hurricanes’ kit.
However, the Harriers name is set to continue for a potential development side who will hopefully be in action next year.
Hereford Harriers, who were formed in 2014, have twice won the RFL’s Challenge Trophy (in its inaugural year of 2018 and again in 2024, when they also finished top of Championship West).
The Harriers, who currently play at Leominster Leisure Centre, are looking forward to a new era with keen anticipation.
Chairman (and Wales international World Cup player) Gary Preece said: “We’re delighted to be under the Midlands Hurricanes banner as we enter the new improved RFL Wheelchair Championship in 2026.
“We’ve played as Hereford Harriers for more than a decade and have thoroughly enjoyed everything we’ve done.
“We’ve produced international players, won trophies and introduced so many players into Wheelchair Rugby League, but we felt it was now time to link up with Midlands Hurricanes, the region’s only professional Rugby League club, so that we can advance, recruit more players and eventually make a claim for Super League.
“Meanwhile we’d like to thank Midlands Hurricanes managing director Eorl Crabtree for all the support he’s already given us.”
Crabtree – the former Huddersfield Giants and England forward, said: “Adding a wheelchair team marks an important step in our long-term strategy.
“We’re building a club who champion accessibility, develop talent in all forms and represent the very best of our region.
“I can’t wait for the new season to arrive, to see a live match in person.”
The Hurricanes, who recently announced a partnership with Warwickshire County Cricket Club, have confirmed that 2026 season-ticket holders will be able to watch all Midlands Hurricanes wheelchair home fixtures free of charge.